Methods and apparatus for controlling lighting

ABSTRACT

Inventive methods and apparatus for interactive control of a lighting environment. In some embodiments an interactive system for controlling redirectable lighting in a lighting environment may be provided. In some embodiments systems and methods may be provided that enable the display of adjustable lighting parameters in a virtual environment.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention is directed generally to lighting control. Moreparticularly, various inventive methods and apparatus disclosed hereinrelate to an interactive system for control of a lighting environment.

BACKGROUND

In certain lighting system implementations it may be desirable to adjustthe lighting parameters of one or more light sources to achieve adesired lighting effect at one or more locations in a lightingenvironment. For example, it may be desirable to adjust the pan and/ortilt of a light source such as a light source of a “moving head” typespot lighting fixture. Also, for example, it may be desirable to adjustthe direction of a LED-based light source (with or without adjusting thepan and/or tilt of such LED-based light source). For example, aLED-based light source may include a plurality of LEDs that generatecollimated light beams in different directions and/or from differentlocations. Selective LEDs of the LED-based light source may beilluminated to direct one or more light beams at one or more locationsin a lighting environment. Also, for example, a LED-based light sourcemay additionally or alternatively include one or more redirectableoptical elements each provided over one or more LEDs that may beselectively actuated to direct light output from the LED(s) to a desiredlocation.

In certain control situations a user may prefer to have the option tocontrol a desired lighting effect (e.g., the location of a lightingeffect, the incoming direction of light creating the lighting effect,the intensity of the lighting effect) instead of or in addition tocontrolling the lighting source directly (e.g., directly adjustingpan/tilt and/or LED light source output). The Applicants have recognizedthat lighting effect based control of a light source should berepresented in a manner that enables a user to understand the appliedlighting effect and that also optionally provides an indication of whatother lighting effects might be obtainable.

Thus, there is a need in the art to provide apparatus and methods thatenable the user to control and specify one or more desired lightingeffects in a lighting system and that, optionally, may provide anindication of capabilities and restrictions of the lighting system.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is directed to inventive methods and apparatusfor interactive control of a lighting environment. For example, in someembodiments an interactive system for controlling redirectable lightingin a lighting environment may be provided. The system may enable a userto control and specify one or more desired lighting effects and mayoptionally provide an indication of capabilities and restrictions of thelighting system. Also, for example, in some embodiments a method ofcontrolling a lighting system for lighting an environment may beprovided and include manipulation of a lighting representation in aninteractive display and corresponding manipulation of light output of alight source. Also, for example, in some embodiments, systems andmethods may be provided that enable the display of adjustable lightingparameters in a virtual environment.

Generally, in one aspect, an interactive system for controllingredirectable lighting in a lighting environment is provided thatincludes an interactive display having a representation of the lightingenvironment. The representation includes at least one repositionablelighting representation. The lighting representation is associated withat least one redirectable light source and includes a light sourcerepresentation and a lighting effect representation. The light sourcerepresentation includes at least one of a source variable size and asource variable shading corresponding to a lighting parameter of theredirectable light source. The lighting effect representation includesat least one of an effect variable size and an effect variable shadingcorresponding to a lighting effect of the redirectable light source at acurrent position of the repositionable lighting effect representation.

In some embodiments, the source variable size corresponds to a beamwidth of the light source. In some versions of those embodiments thelight source representation includes both the source variable size andthe source variable shading. In some versions of those embodiments thesource variable shading corresponds to a dimming level of the lightsource.

In some embodiments, the effect variable size corresponds to a size ofthe lighting effect at the current position. In some versions of thoseembodiments the lighting effect representation includes both the effectvariable size and the effect variable shading. In some versions of thoseembodiments the effect variable shading corresponds to an illuminationlevel of the current position. The light source representation can beencapsulated within the light effect representation.

In some embodiments, a plurality of the redirectable light source areprovided and the lighting representation is selectively associable withat least one of the plurality of the redirectable light source. Also,the lighting parameter can be adjustable via manipulation of thelighting representation on the display.

Generally, in another aspect, an interactive system for controllingredirectable lighting in a lighting environment is provided thatincludes an interactive display having a representation of the lightingenvironment. The representation includes a plurality of light sources,at least one repositionable lighting representation, and arepositionable directional fiducial marking. The repositionabledirectional fiducial marking is associated with the repositionablelighting representation and indicates a direction of light for thelighting representation.

In some embodiments, the fiducial marking extends from adjacent one ofthe plurality of light sources toward the repositionable lightingrepresentation and is individually repositionable to other of the lightsources. In some versions of those embodiments the fiducial marking is aline.

In some embodiments, the repositionable lighting representationcorresponds to a current position of the repositionable lightingrepresentation and to which of the light sources the fiducial markingextends toward.

In some embodiments, the repositionable lighting representation includesan outer shape and an inner shape encapsulated within the outer shape.

In some embodiments, the repositionable lighting representation includesa light source representation and a lighting effect representation. Insome versions of those embodiments the light source representationincludes at least one of a variable size and a variable shadingcorresponding to a lighting parameter of one of the light sources. Insome versions of those embodiments the lighting effect representationincludes at least one of a variable size and a variable shadingcorresponding to a lighting effect at a current position of therepositionable lighting representation. In some versions of thoseembodiments the variable size corresponds to a beam width. In someversions of those embodiments the light source representation includesboth the variable size and the variable shading. In some versions ofthose embodiments the variable size corresponds to a size of thelighting effect. In some versions of those embodiments the lightingeffect representation includes both the variable size and the variableshading. In some versions of those embodiments the variable shadingcorresponds to an illumination level of the current position.

Generally, in another aspect, a method of controlling a lighting systemfor lighting an environment is provided and includes: moving a lightingrepresentation to a virtual location on an interactive display, thevirtual location representative of a real location in the lightingenvironment; directing a light output of a lighting source to the reallocation; adjusting at least one of a size and a shading of the lightingrepresentation on the interactive display; and adjusting at least one ofa beam width, a color, and an intensity of the light output in responseto the adjusting of at least one of the size and the shading of thelighting representation.

In some embodiments, the method further includes the step of adjusting afiducial marking associated with the repositionable lightingrepresentation on the virtual screen, wherein adjusting the fiducialmarking adjusts directionality of artificial light incident at the reallocation. In some versions of those embodiments adjusting the fiducialmarking adjusts directionality of the light output. In some versions ofthose embodiments adjusting the fiducial marking directs a second lightoutput of a second light source to the real location.

In some embodiments, the method further includes the step of moving adistal end of a fiducial marking extending from adjacent the lightingeffect representation from adjacent a first virtual light sourcelocation to adjacent a second virtual light source location—the firstvirtual light source location corresponding with the lighting source andthe second virtual light source location corresponding with a separatesecond lighting source—and directing a light output of the secondlighting source to the real location.

In some embodiments, the lighting effect representation includes anouter shape and an inner shape encapsulated within the outer shape.

In some embodiments, the repositionable lighting representation includesa light source representation and a lighting effect representation. Insome versions of those embodiments at least one of the size and theshading of the light source representation is adjusted. In some versionsof those embodiments at least one of the size and the shading of thelighting effect representation is adjusted. In some versions of thoseembodiments adjusting the shading of the lighting effect representationautomatically adjusts the shading of the light source representation.The beam width can optionally be adjusted in response to adjusting thesize of the lighting effect representation. The beam width can also beadjusted in response to adjusting the size. In some versions of thoseembodiments the intensity is adjusted in response to adjusting theshading.

Generally, in another aspect, a method of displaying lighting parametersin a virtual environment is provided and includes the steps of:identifying a location of a lighting effect within a virtual environmentindicative of a real word environment; determining at least one of afirst size and a first shading of a first shape to correspond to alighting parameter of a light source; determining at least one of asecond size and a second shading of a second shape to correspond to thelighting effect of the light source at the location; and overlaying thefirst shape and the second shape over the location in the virtualenvironment.

In some embodiments, the first shape is encapsulated within the secondshape. In some versions of those embodiments the method further includesthe step of positioning a fiducial marking between the light source andthe first shape and the second shape.

In some embodiments, the first size, the first shading, the second size,and the second shading are all determined.

In some embodiments, the step of identifying the location includesidentifying a location of the light source in the real world environmentand identifying a direction of a light output of the light source. Insome versions of those embodiments the step of identifying the locationfurther includes identifying the distance between the light source andan actual location in the real world environment. The step ofidentifying the location optionally includes registering real worldobjects with virtual objects in the virtual environment.

In some embodiments, the method further includes the step of adjustingat least one of the second size and the second shading of the secondshape to correspond to adjustment of the lighting effect.

In some embodiments, the virtual environment is an augmented realityenvironment.

Generally, in another aspect, a method of displaying lighting parametersin a virtual environment is provided and includes the steps of:identifying a direction of a light output of a light source in a realworld environment; identifying a distance between the light source andan actual illumination location in the real world environment;positioning a lighting effect representation within a virtualenvironment indicative of the real word environment, wherein thepositioning is based on the direction and the distance; and configuringthe lighting effect to be indicative of lighting conditions at theactual illumination location, wherein the configuring is based on thedistance.

In some embodiments, the configuring includes determining a size of thelighting effect representation.

In some embodiments, the configuring includes determining a shading ofthe lighting effect representation.

As used herein for purposes of the present disclosure, the term “LED”should be understood to include any electroluminescent diode or othertype of carrier injection/junction-based system that is capable ofgenerating radiation in response to an electric signal. Thus, the termLED includes, but is not limited to, various semiconductor-basedstructures that emit light in response to current, light emittingpolymers, organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs), electroluminescentstrips, and the like. In particular, the term LED refers to lightemitting diodes of all types (including semi-conductor and organic lightemitting diodes) that may be configured to generate radiation in one ormore of the infrared spectrum, ultraviolet spectrum, and variousportions of the visible spectrum (generally including radiationwavelengths from approximately 400 nanometers to approximately 700nanometers). Some examples of LEDs include, but are not limited to,various types of infrared LEDs, ultraviolet LEDs, red LEDs, blue LEDs,green LEDs, yellow LEDs, amber LEDs, orange LEDs, and white LEDs(discussed further below). It also should be appreciated that LEDs maybe configured and/or controlled to generate radiation having variousbandwidths (e.g., full widths at half maximum, or FWHM) for a givenspectrum (e.g., narrow bandwidth, broad bandwidth), and a variety ofdominant wavelengths within a given general color categorization.

For example, one implementation of an LED configured to generateessentially white light (e.g., a white LED) may include a number of dieswhich respectively emit different spectra of electroluminescence that,in combination, mix to form essentially white light. In anotherimplementation, a white light LED may be associated with a phosphormaterial that converts electroluminescence having a first spectrum to adifferent second spectrum. In one example of this implementation,electroluminescence having a relatively short wavelength and narrowbandwidth spectrum “pumps” the phosphor material, which in turn radiateslonger wavelength radiation having a somewhat broader spectrum.

It should also be understood that the term LED does not limit thephysical and/or electrical package type of an LED. For example, asdiscussed above, an LED may refer to a single light emitting devicehaving multiple dies that are configured to respectively emit differentspectra of radiation (e.g., that may or may not be individuallycontrollable). Also, an LED may be associated with a phosphor that isconsidered as an integral part of the LED (e.g., some types of whiteLEDs). In general, the term LED may refer to packaged LEDs, non-packagedLEDs, surface mount LEDs, chip-on-board LEDs, T-package mount LEDs,radial package LEDs, power package LEDs, LEDs including some type ofencasement and/or optical element (e.g., a diffusing lens), etc.

The term “light source” should be understood to refer to any one or moreof a variety of radiation sources, including, but not limited to,LED-based sources (including one or more LEDs as defined above),incandescent sources (e.g., filament lamps, halogen lamps), fluorescentsources, phosphorescent sources, high-intensity discharge sources (e.g.,sodium vapor, mercury vapor, and metal halide lamps), lasers, othertypes of electroluminescent sources, pyro-luminescent sources (e.g.,flames), candle-luminescent sources (e.g., gas mantles, carbon arcradiation sources), photo-luminescent sources (e.g., gaseous dischargesources), cathode luminescent sources using electronic satiation,galvano-luminescent sources, crystallo-luminescent sources,kine-luminescent sources, thermo-luminescent sources, triboluminescentsources, sonoluminescent sources, radioluminescent sources, andluminescent polymers.

A given light source may be configured to generate electromagneticradiation within the visible spectrum, outside the visible spectrum, ora combination of both. Hence, the terms “light” and “radiation” are usedinterchangeably herein. Additionally, a light source may include as anintegral component one or more filters (e.g., color filters), lenses, orother optical components. Also, it should be understood that lightsources may be configured for a variety of applications, including, butnot limited to, indication, display, and/or illumination. An“illumination source” is a light source that is particularly configuredto generate radiation having a sufficient intensity to effectivelyilluminate an interior or exterior space. In this context, “sufficientintensity” refers to sufficient radiant power in the visible spectrumgenerated in the space or environment (the unit “lumens” often isemployed to represent the total light output from a light source in alldirections, in terms of radiant power or “luminous flux”) to provideambient illumination (i.e., light that may be perceived indirectly andthat may be, for example, reflected off of one or more of a variety ofintervening surfaces before being perceived in whole or in part).

The term “spectrum” should be understood to refer to any one or morefrequencies (or wavelengths) of radiation produced by one or more lightsources. Accordingly, the term “spectrum” refers to frequencies (orwavelengths) not only in the visible range, but also frequencies (orwavelengths) in the infrared, ultraviolet, and other areas of theoverall electromagnetic spectrum. Also, a given spectrum may have arelatively narrow bandwidth (e.g., a FWHM having essentially fewfrequency or wavelength components) or a relatively wide bandwidth(several frequency or wavelength components having various relativestrengths). It should also be appreciated that a given spectrum may bethe result of a mixing of two or more other spectra (e.g., mixingradiation respectively emitted from multiple light sources).

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “color” is usedinterchangeably with the term “spectrum.” However, the term “color”generally is used to refer primarily to a property of radiation that isperceivable by an observer (although this usage is not intended to limitthe scope of this term). Accordingly, the terms “different colors”implicitly refer to multiple spectra having different wavelengthcomponents and/or bandwidths. It also should be appreciated that theterm “color” may be used in connection with both white and non-whitelight.

The term “color temperature” generally is used herein in connection withwhite light, although this usage is not intended to limit the scope ofthis term. Color temperature essentially refers to a particular colorcontent or shade (e.g., reddish, bluish) of white light. The colortemperature of a given radiation sample conventionally is characterizedaccording to the temperature in degrees Kelvin (K) of a black bodyradiator that radiates essentially the same spectrum as the radiationsample in question. Black body radiator color temperatures generallyfall within a range of from approximately 700 degrees K (typicallyconsidered the first visible to the human eye) to over 10,000 degrees K;white light generally is perceived at color temperatures above 1500-2000degrees K.

The term “lighting fixture” is used herein to refer to an implementationor arrangement of one or more lighting units in a particular formfactor, assembly, or package. The term “lighting unit” is used herein torefer to an apparatus including one or more light sources of same ordifferent types. A given lighting unit may have any one of a variety ofmounting arrangements for the light source(s), enclosure/housingarrangements and shapes, and/or electrical and mechanical connectionconfigurations. Additionally, a given lighting unit optionally may beassociated with (e.g., include, be coupled to and/or packaged togetherwith) various other components (e.g., control circuitry) relating to theoperation of the light source(s). An “LED-based lighting unit” refers toa lighting unit that includes one or more LED-based light sources asdiscussed above, alone or in combination with other non LED-based lightsources. A “multi-channel” lighting unit refers to an LED-based or nonLED-based lighting unit that includes at least two light sourcesconfigured to respectively generate different spectrums of radiation,wherein each different source spectrum may be referred to as a “channel”of the multi-channel lighting unit.

The term “controller” is used herein generally to describe variousapparatus relating to the operation of one or more light sources. Acontroller can be implemented in numerous ways (e.g., such as withdedicated hardware) to perform various functions discussed herein. A“processor” is one example of a controller which employs one or moremicroprocessors that may be programmed using software (e.g., microcode)to perform various functions discussed herein. A controller may beimplemented with or without employing a processor, and also may beimplemented as a combination of dedicated hardware to perform somefunctions and a processor (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessorsand associated circuitry) to perform other functions. Examples ofcontroller components that may be employed in various embodiments of thepresent disclosure include, but are not limited to, conventionalmicroprocessors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), andfield-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs).

In various implementations, a processor or controller may be associatedwith one or more storage media (generically referred to herein as“memory,” e.g., volatile and non-volatile computer memory such as RAM,PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM, floppy disks, compact disks, optical disks,magnetic tape, etc.). In some implementations, the storage media may beencoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or moreprocessors and/or controllers, perform at least some of the functionsdiscussed herein. Various storage media may be fixed within a processoror controller or may be transportable, such that the one or moreprograms stored thereon can be loaded into a processor or controller soas to implement various aspects of the present invention discussedherein. The terms “program” or “computer program” are used herein in ageneric sense to refer to any type of computer code (e.g., software ormicrocode) that can be employed to program one or more processors orcontrollers.

The term “addressable” is used herein to refer to a device (e.g., alight source in general, a lighting unit or fixture, a controller orprocessor associated with one or more light sources or lighting units,other non-lighting related devices, etc.) that is configured to receiveinformation (e.g., data) intended for multiple devices, includingitself, and to selectively respond to particular information intendedfor it. The term “addressable” often is used in connection with anetworked environment (or a “network,” discussed further below), inwhich multiple devices are coupled together via some communicationsmedium or media.

In one network implementation, one or more devices coupled to a networkmay serve as a controller for one or more other devices coupled to thenetwork (e.g., in a master/slave relationship). In anotherimplementation, a networked environment may include one or morededicated controllers that are configured to control one or more of thedevices coupled to the network. Generally, multiple devices coupled tothe network each may have access to data that is present on thecommunications medium or media; however, a given device may be“addressable” in that it is configured to selectively exchange data with(i.e., receive data from and/or transmit data to) the network, based,for example, on one or more particular identifiers (e.g., “addresses”)assigned to it.

The term “network” as used herein refers to any interconnection of twoor more devices (including controllers or processors) that facilitatesthe transport of information (e.g. for device control, data storage,data exchange, etc.) between any two or more devices and/or amongmultiple devices coupled to the network. As should be readilyappreciated, various implementations of networks suitable forinterconnecting multiple devices may include any of a variety of networktopologies and employ any of a variety of communication protocols.Additionally, in various networks according to the present disclosure,any one connection between two devices may represent a dedicatedconnection between the two systems, or alternatively a non-dedicatedconnection. In addition to carrying information intended for the twodevices, such a non-dedicated connection may carry information notnecessarily intended for either of the two devices (e.g., an opennetwork connection). Furthermore, it should be readily appreciated thatvarious networks of devices as discussed herein may employ one or morewireless, wire/cable, and/or fiber optic links to facilitate informationtransport throughout the network.

The term “user interface” as used herein refers to an interface betweena human user or operator and one or more devices that enablescommunication between the user and the device(s). Examples of userinterfaces that may be employed in various implementations of thepresent disclosure include, but are not limited to, switches,potentiometers, buttons, dials, sliders, a mouse, keyboard, keypad,various types of game controllers (e.g., joysticks), track balls,display screens, various types of graphical user interfaces (GUIs),touch screens, microphones and other types of sensors that may receivesome form of human-generated stimulus and generate a signal in responsethereto.

It should be appreciated that all combinations of the foregoing conceptsand additional concepts discussed in greater detail below (provided suchconcepts are not mutually inconsistent) are contemplated as being partof the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. In particular, allcombinations of claimed subject matter appearing at the end of thisdisclosure are contemplated as being part of the inventive subjectmatter disclosed herein. It should also be appreciated that terminologyexplicitly employed herein that also may appear in any disclosureincorporated by reference should be accorded a meaning most consistentwith the particular concepts disclosed herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings, like reference characters generally refer to the sameparts throughout the different views. Also, the drawings are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead generally being placed uponillustrating the principles of the invention.

FIG. 1 illustrates a user in a retail environment redirecting lightsources of a lighting system onto a mannequin utilizing an augmentedreality display device.

FIG. 2 illustrates the display of the augmented reality display deviceof FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 illustrates the positioning of an augmented reality displaydevice, a redirectable spot, and an object within a coordinate system ofthe real environment.

FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a method of locating a lightingeffect in the display of the augmented reality display device.

FIG. 5 illustrates the display of a reality display device with amannequin in a first position and light sources in a firstconfiguration.

FIG. 6 illustrates the display of the augmented reality display deviceof FIG. 5, with the mannequin in a second position and the light sourcesin a second configuration.

FIG. 7 illustrates the display of the augmented reality display deviceof FIG. 5, with the mannequin in the second position and the light in athird configuration.

FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate the display of the augmented reality displaydevice of FIG. 5, with the mannequin in the second position; thelighting effect on the mannequin is illustrated being switched to begenerated from another light source.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In certain lighting system implementations it may be desirable to adjustthe lighting parameters of one or more light sources to achieve adesired lighting effect at one or more locations in a lightingenvironment. For example, it may be desirable to adjust the pan and/ortilt of a light source such as a light source of a moving head type spotlighting fixture. Also, for example, it may be desirable to adjust thedirection of light output of a LED-based light source (with or withoutadjusting the pan and/or tilt of such LED-based light source). Incertain control situations a user may prefer to have the option tocontrol a desired lighting effect instead of or in addition tocontrolling the lighting source directly. Applicants have recognized andappreciated that lighting effect based control of a light source shouldbe represented in a manner that enables a user to understand the appliedlighting effect and that also optionally provides an indication of whatother lighting effects might be obtainable.

Thus, there is a need in the art to provide apparatus and methods thatenable the user to control and specify one or more desired lightingeffects in a lighting system and that optionally provides an indicationof capabilities and restrictions of the lighting system.

More generally, Applicants have recognized and appreciated that it wouldbe beneficial to provide various inventive methods and apparatus relatedto interactive system for control of a lighting environment.

In view of the foregoing, various embodiments and implementations of thepresent invention are directed to lighting control.

In the following detailed description, for purposes of explanation andnot limitation, representative embodiments disclosing specific detailsare set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of theclaimed invention. However, it will be apparent to one having ordinaryskill in the art having had the benefit of the present disclosure thatother embodiments according to the present teachings that depart fromthe specific details disclosed herein remain within the scope of theappended claims. Moreover, descriptions of well-known apparatus andmethods may be omitted so as to not obscure the description of therepresentative embodiments. Such methods and apparatus are clearlywithin the scope of the claimed invention. For example, aspects of themethods and apparatus disclosed herein are described in conjunction withcontrol of a lighting system in a retail environment. However, one ormore aspects of the methods and apparatus described herein may beimplemented in other settings such as, for example, offices, theatre,and home environments. Implementation of the one or more aspectsdescribed herein in alternatively configured environments iscontemplated without deviating from the scope or spirit of the claimedinvention.

Referring to FIG. 1, a user 1 and a mannequin 3 are illustrated a retailenvironment. The user is utilizing an augmented reality display device30 to configure light output from LED lighting fixture 12 andredirectable spot lighting fixture 16. One or more LED-based lightsources of the LED lighting fixture 12 are configured so as to provide alight output generally along line 13 to provide lighting of the face ofthe mannequin 3 as generally indicated at circle 14. For example, one ormore selected directional LEDs of the LED lighting fixture 12 may beilluminated to a desired level to provide the illustrated directionallight output. The redirectable spot lighting fixture 16 is alsoconfigured so as to provide a light output generally along line 17 toprovide lighting on a wall 5 of the retail environment as generallyindicated at circle 18. For example, the pan, the tilt, beam width,and/or intensity of the redirectable spot lighting fixture 16 may beadjusted (e.g., via a motor) so as to provide the lighting as generallyindicated at circle 18. The redirectable spot lighting fixture 16 may beproviding general lighting of the wall 5 or may optionally be directedat a specific display on the wall 5 for illumination of such display.

In some embodiments, the augmented reality display device 30 may be aportable electronic device which has at one side a display 31 and at aside opposite the display a camera. In some embodiments the display mayprovide an image of the environment captured by the camera of thedisplay device 30 and may overlay the image with one or more overlayitems such as those described herein. For example, the image captured bythe camera of the display device 30 may be overlaid with one or morerepresentations of a lighting effect, a light output direction, and/or alighting source. In alternative embodiments the display device 30 mayoverlay an image that is captured by a remote camera and/or an imagethat does not necessarily correspond to the location at which thedisplay device 30 is currently located (e.g., the user may modifylighting parameters from a remote location). In some embodiments thedisplay may provide a 3D rendering, schematic representation, or otherrepresentation of the environment and may include one or morerepresentations of a lighting effect, a light output direction, and/or alighting source. Display device 30 is provided herein as an example of adisplay and user interface that may be utilized to implement one or moreof the systems and/or methods described herein. However, one of ordinaryskill in the art, having had the benefit of the present disclosure, willrecognize and appreciate that in alternative embodiments additionaland/or alternative displays and user interfaces may be utilized thatprovide a representation of an actual lighting environment, enablemanipulation of lighting parameters of a lighting system within thelighting environment, and optionally provide an indication ofcapabilities and restrictions of the lighting system.

As described herein, the user 1 may utilize the display device 30 toprovide a desired lighting effect for the selected location (e.g., viadirect input to a user interface of the display device 30). Based on theprovided input, the display device may in some embodiments immediatelygenerate control signals and provide them to the lighting fixtures 12and/or 16 (e.g., via a network utilizing one or more communicationprotocols such as DMX, Ethernet, Bluetooth, ZigBee, and/or Z-Wave) sothat the user 1 is able to immediately see the real world effect of theselected control parameters. In another embodiment, the lighting systemis not immediately controlled, but may be later adjusted based onselected control parameters (either directly via display device 30 orthrough a separate controller).

Referring to FIG. 2, the display 31 of the augmented reality displaydevice 30 of FIG. 1 is illustrated. Provided on the display 31 is arepresentation of the mannequin 3, a representation of the wall 5, arepresentation of the redirectable spot lighting fixture 16, and arepresentation of the LED lighting fixture 12. Illustrated extendingfrom the LED lighting fixture 12 is a stick 40. The stick 40 isinterposed between the LED lighting fixture 12 and a lightingrepresentation 41 over the head of the mannequin 3. The stick 40provides an indication of the direction of the light output provided bythe LED lighting fixture 12 and the lighting representation 41 attachedto the stick 40 provides an indication of the area illuminated by thelight output provided by the LED lighting fixture 12.

The illustrated lighting representation 41 has an outer circle 42 and aninner circle 44. The inner circle 44 may be indicative of one or moreproperties of the light source of the LED lighting fixture 12. Forexample, the size of the inner circle 44 may be indicative of the beamwidth of the light output of the LEDs of the LED lighting fixture thatare active and directed at the mannequin. Also, for example, the shadingof the inner circle 44 may be indicative of the dimming value of suchLEDs. For example, greylevels between black and white may be mapped tothe dimming level of the lamp. Accordingly, by viewing the shading ofthe inner circle 44 a user will be able to ascertain if the dimminglevel may be increased and/or decreased to alter the illumination at theeffect location. The outer circle 42 is indicative of one or moreproperties of the lighting effect provided by the output from LEDlighting fixture 12 at the lighting effect location (e.g., the face ofthe mannequin 3 in FIG. 2). For example, the size of the outer circle 42may be indicative of the size of the lighting effect provided by theoutput from LED lighting fixture 12 at the lighting effect location.Also, for example, the shading of the outer circle 42 may be indicativeof the illumination provided to the illuminated object by the outputfrom LED lighting fixture 12 at the lighting effect location. Theindication of illumination provided to the illuminated object by theoutput from the LED lighting fixture 12 may be determined based on, forexample, properties of the LEDs of the LED lighting fixture 12 that areilluminating the lighting effect location, the dimming level of theLEDs, and/or the distance between the LEDs and the illuminated object.

Illustrated extending from the spot lighting fixture 16 is a stick 45.The stick 45 is interposed between the spot lighting fixture 16 and alighting representation 46 on the wall 5. The stick 45 provides anindication of the direction of the light output provided by the spotlighting fixture 16 and the lighting representation 46 attached to thestick 45 provides an indication of the area illuminated by the lightoutput provided by the spot lighting fixture 16.

The lighting representation 46 has an outer circle 47 and an innercircle 49. The inner circle 49 is indicative of one or more propertiesof the light source of the spot lighting fixture 16. For example, thesize of the inner circle 49 may be indicative of the beam width and theshading of the inner circle 49 may be indicative of the dimming value.The outer circle 47 is indicative of one or more properties of thelighting effect provided by the output from spot lighting fixture 16 atthe lighting effect location. For example, the size of the outer circle47 may be indicative of the size of the lighting effect and the shadingof the outer circle 47 may be indicative of the illumination provided tothe illuminated object at the lighting effect location.

Although outer circles 42, 47 and concentric inner circles 44, 49 areillustrated in FIG. 2, in alternative embodiments the outer circles 42,47 and/or inner circles 44, 49 may optionally be another shape. Forexample, in some embodiments the outer circle 42 and/or inner circle 44may be triangular, rectangular, elliptical, or polygonal. Also, in someembodiments the outer circles 42, 47 and inner circles 44, 49 may benon-concentric with one another. Also, in some embodiments the innercircles 44, 49 may not be provided encapsulated within the outer circles42, 47. For example, all or portions of the inner circle 44 may beprovided exterior to the outer circle 42. Also, for example, in someembodiments the outer circles 42, 47 and/or inner circles 44, 49 may beshaped to provide an indication of the beam shape of the light sourceand/or lighting effect. For example, a first beam shape may berepresented by a first shape and a second beam shape may be representedby a second shape. Optionally, the beam shapes and the shaperepresenting the beam shape may correspond.

FIG. 3 illustrates the positioning of an augmented reality displaydevice 130, a redirectable spot lighting fixture 116, and an object 104within a coordinate system of a real environment having a referencepoint at 102. A lighting representation 141 is also illustrated. Thecoordinate system is illustrated as an example of one of many coordinatesystems that may be utilized. In some embodiments the coordinate systemmay include GPS coordinates and/or local coordinates. The redirectablespot lighting fixture 116 is located at a location spaced along a singleaxis relative to the reference point at 102. The location of theredirectable spot lighting fixture 116 within the coordinate system maybe provided via configuration by a user (e.g. entering of thecoordinates by a user) or utilizing one or more location methods. Thedirection of the light beam generated by the spot lighting fixture 116may also be determined utilizing, for example, pan and/or tilt valuescommunicated to the fixture 116 by a controller directing the fixture116 and/or via feedback from a motor of the fixture 116. For example,the controller may control the fixture 116 utilizing a DMX controlprotocol and pan and tilt values may be derived from DMX control signalssent to the fixture 116. The distance between the fixture 116 and thelighting representation 141 is also determinable. For example, thedistance may be determined via a distance sensor (e.g., a laser)provided on the fixture 116 and aimed in the same direction as thecenter of the light beam generated by the fixture 116. Also, forexample, the distance may be calculated if a virtual model of the realenvironment is available and includes the location of the lightingfixture 116 and the object 104.

The location and/or viewing angle(s) (generally indicated by arrow 135)of the display device 130 are also determinable. For example, thelocation of the display device 130 within the coordinate system may beprovided via configuration by a user (e.g. entering of the coordinatesby a user) or utilizing one or more location methods. Also, for example,the viewing angle(s) of the display device may be determined via anorientation sensor such as, for example, a digital compass (e.g., amagnetometer, gyrocompass, and/or hall effect sensors) a gyroscope, anaccelerometer, and/or a three-axis electronic compass. The sensor(s) ofthe display device 130 may include a GPS sensor or other sensor which iscapable of determining the location of the display device 130 within theenvironment; an electronic compass or other sensor that is capable ofdetermining the direction in which the camera of the display device 130is directed; and a zoom controller of the camera or other sensor thatmay detect the angle of view of the camera.

These locations, distances, and/or angles may be utilized in detectingand defining the location of light spots on the display device 130 orother control device utilizing lighting representations presented on adisplay. For example, in some embodiments a virtual reality display ofthe actual environment may be created utilizing, for example, aschematic representation of the actual environment and/or a 3D model ofthe environment. In other embodiments an augmented reality display maybe created. FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of a method of locating alighting effect in an augmented reality display. At steps 201-203 thelocation of the lighting effect in the real environment is determined.At step 201 the location of one or more light sources is determined. Atstep 202 the direction of the light beam(s) generated by each of thelight sources is determined. At step 203 the distance between the lightsource(s) and the lighting effect is determined. Steps 201-203 mayutilize, for example, one or more sensors and/or values discussed hereinwith respect to FIG. 3.

At step 204, registration occurs to align virtual objects with realobjects in the augmented reality display. For example, in someembodiments markers and video processing may be utilized to registervirtual objects with real objects in the augmented reality display.Markers may be placed in the real environment and their locationsconfigured. The markers are then detected in the augmented video displayutilizing video processing. Also, for example, in some embodiments arough 3D model of the real environment may be made and, utilizing videoprocessing, elements of the real environment (e.g., corners of a room)may be detected and mapped to the rough 3D model. Also, for example, insome embodiments geometric reasoning may be utilized. For example,detected location and aiming parameters of the display device 130 may bemeasured and mapped onto the coordinates of the environment. The cameraand/or display properties of the display device 130 may also be takeninto account.

At step 205, two virtual shapes are created in virtual space at thelocation of the lighting effect. The virtual shapes may include innerand outer concentric shapes. In some embodiments the inner virtual shapemay be sized, shaded, colored, and/or shaped to represent a property ofthe light source and the outer virtual shape may be sized, shaded,colored, and/or shaped to represent a property of the lighting effect.For example, the diameter of the inner shape may be an indication forthe beam width and the greyness of the inner shape may be an indicationof the dimming level of the light source. Also, for example, thediameter of the outer shape may be an indication for the effect size andthe greyness of the outer shape may represent the illumination of thelighting target. These virtual shapes are mapped together with the realpicture in the display of the augmented reality device.

At step 206, a virtual stick is drawn that connects the virtual shapeswith the light source. As described herein, the virtual stick may bemade to be movable in various embodiments. For example, when moving thevirtual shapes, the effect end of the stick may be configured to movewith the virtual shapes and the light source end of the stick to stay inlocation. When moving the stick, the effect end of the stick may beconfigured to remain at the same location while the lamp end of thestick moves (e.g., to another light source). Although a solid line stickis illustrated in the Figures, it is understood that other fiducialmarkings may be utilized instead of and/or in addition to a solid linestick. For example, in some embodiments a dashed line may be provided,an irregularly shaped solid and/or dashed line, and/or a dashed or solidline made up of a plurality of symbols. Also, although the solid linestick is shown extending completely between and connecting the virtuallighting representation and the virtual light source, in someembodiments the stick (or other marking) may only extend partiallybetween the virtual lighting representation and the virtual lightsource. Also, for example, in some embodiments the stick (or othermarking) may only be associated with a lighting representation(indicating the direction of artificial light thereon) without the lightsource necessarily being represented in the virtual display.

The user need not be necessarily present in the real environment whencontrolling and/or configuring lighting in the real environment. Theparticular moment of time when the image or model of the realenvironment was obtained may be a moment in time that does not relate tothe moment in time at which the user indicates desired lighting effectsin a lighting system and optionally receives an indication ofcapabilities and restrictions of the lighting system. For example, animage of the real environment may be stored in a database together withthe information of the lighting system and information of theenvironment. Or, in another example, a device may include a camera forobtaining the image of the real environment, and after obtaining theimage the device may be relocated to another room and/or the user maymove the device to a more comfortable position before providing the userinput. The depiction of the real environment may be a schematic drawingof the environment or the depiction may be a recording of theenvironment, for example, a photograph taken at a particular moment intime.

In some embodiments, the real environment and/or lighting system modelmay be obtained via known technologies, such as for example theso-termed darkroom calibration or technologies that utilize coded lightfrom the light sources and an image sensor to detect the footprints ofthe light sources and to detect the identification codes of the lightsources. In other embodiments the real environment and/or lightingsystem model may be composed by a person, for example, a technician whoinstalled the lighting system in the environment.

FIG. 5 illustrates a display 331 illustrating a mannequin 303 in a firstposition and light sources 316A-E and 312 in a first configuration. Insome embodiments the display 331 may be part of a portable device suchas, for example, a mobile smart phone or a tablet computer. Optionally,the portable device may include a responsive touchscreen and beresponsive to one or more touchscreen methods and/or the portable devicemay include an orientation sensor and be responsive to one or moremovements of the portable device. The display 331 may present andaugmented reality representation of a real environment in someembodiments and may present an entirely virtual representation of a realenvironment in some other embodiments.

The display 331 represents the mannequin 303 and five separateredirectable light sources 316A-E and 312. The redirectable lightsources 316A-E may be, for example, light sources of motorized spot typelighting fixtures. The light source 312 may be, for example, anLED-based lighting fixture that includes redirectable light output viathe manipulation of one or more LEDs and/or optical components thereof.In some embodiments one or more non-redirectable light sources may beprovided. Optionally, such non-redirectable light sources may include atleast one adjustable parameter (e.g., intensity, beam width, color).Each of the redirectable light sources 316A-E, 312 is associated with astick 340A-E, 345 extending therefrom and a lighting representation341A-E, 346 at an opposing end of the stick 340A-E, 345. Each lightingrepresentation 341A-E, 346 includes an outer circle 342A-E, 347 and aninner circle 344A-E, 349.

The size of each inner circle 344A-E, 349 is indicative of the beamwidth of the respective light source 316A-E, 312. The shading of eachinner circle 344A-E, 349 is indicative of the dimming level of therespective light source 316A-E, 312. The size of each outer circle342A-E, 347 is indicative of the size of the effect generated at theaiming location of the respective light source 316A-E, 312. The shadingof each outer circle 344A-E, 349 is indicative of the illumination levelat the aiming location of the respective light source 316A-E, 312. InFIG. 5 lighting representations 341A and 341C are illustratedoverlapping atop the mannequin 303. The sticks 340A and 340C indicatethat the lighting representations 341A and 341C are generated byrespective of lighting fixtures 316A and 316C and that light outputgenerating lighting representations 341A and 341C is coming from adirection generally indicated by respective of sticks 340A and 340C. Thelighting representations 341B,D,E, 346 are illustrated on a wallpositioned behind the mannequin 303.

In FIG. 6 the mannequin 303 is moved to a second position. It is to benoted that the lighting representations 341A and 341C are now directedto the wall behind the mannequin 303 since the mannequin 303 has beenmoved. Accordingly, the outer circles 342A and 342C are larger due tothe distance between the light sources 316A and 316C and the wall beinggreater than the distance between the light sources 316A and 316C andthe mannequin 303 in its position of FIG. 5. Also, because the sameamount of light from light sources 316A and 316C is spread out over alarger area (due to the increased distance), the outer circles 342A and342C are illustrated darker in FIG. 6 to indicate the decreasedintensity of the lighting effect. As the inner circles 344A and 344Crepresent the properties of the light source, they remain the samebecause the properties of the light source (e.g., beam width or dimminglevel) are not changed.

In FIG. 6, the light sources 312 and 316E are also illustrated as beingturned off. A user may turn the light source off by using one or moreinputs. For example, in the case of a touchscreen device a user maydouble click the light source to turn it on or off.

In FIG. 7, the mannequin 303 is still in the second position. Thelighting representation 341A is illustrated redirected to the mannequin303 in FIG. 7. In some embodiments the lighting representation 341A maybe redirected via clicking and dragging the lighting representation 341Awith the pointer 308 in the direction of arrow 307 (FIG. 6) utilizing,for example, a mouse or trackball device. In other embodiments thelighting representation 341A may be redirected via one or more knowntouchscreen methods. For example, the lighting representation 341A maybe selected and dragged with a finger. Also, for example, the lightingrepresentation 341A may be selected with a finger and then theorientation of the display 331 adjusted by a user to adjust the lightingrepresentation 341A. For example, tilting the display 331 will move thelighting representation 341A in a vertical direction. Feed forward mayoptionally be provided on the maximum adjustability of the lightingrepresentation 341A (e.g., defined by the maximum turning angles of thespot lighting source 312A and/or obstacles in the real environment). Forexample, when the lighting representation 341A is selected, area(s) thatare not accessible may be greyed out, indicating to the user the rangeof movements of the lighting representation 341A. Also, for example,when the lighting representation 341A is selected, area(s) that areaccessible, may additionally or alternatively be highlighted indicatingto the user the range of movements of the lighting representation 341A.

During the redirection action of the user, the pan and tilt values ofthe lighting source 316A are changed in the direction of the new effectposition, and based on coordinates of the source and distance betweenlight source and light effect, the location of the lightingrepresentation is determined and mapped to the virtual screen. Thisresults in new positions of the lighting representation 341A and givesthe user the possibility to place the lighting representation 341A onthe new position of the mannequin 303. The stick 340A is also adapted tothe new position of the lighting representation 341A on the screen.

In some embodiments the pan and tilt values of the lighting source 316Amay be derived from the movement of a user's finger on a touchscreen orfrom the movement of a pointer on a screen via another input device. Forexample, an initial movement of the lighting representation 341A to themannequin 303 on a virtual screen by a user will cause a controller todirect the lighting source 316A to initially pan and/or tilt in adirection generally toward the mannequin 303 in the real environment.After the initial pan and/or tilt, the new position of the lightingeffect in the real environment may be determined utilizing, for example,a distance sensor of the lighting source 316A and/or other inputsdiscussed herein. The new position of the lighting representation 341Amay then be updated and positioned on the display 331. The new positionmay be different from the intended target (e.g., the position of thefinger on the touchscreen), and, if so, the controller may direct thelighting source 316A to pan and/or tilt farther and then determine theposition of the lighting effect in the real environment and update theposition on the display 331. After one or more iterations of adjustingthe light source 316A, determining the real world location of thelighting effect, updating the location on the display 331, and furtheradjusting the light source if the location is different than theintended target, the real world and virtual location of the lightingeffect will match the intended target.

One potential sequence of events while adjusting the lightingrepresentation 341A to the mannequin 303 on a virtual screen by a userinvolves a user tapping the lighting representation 341A then dragginghis finger in the direction of arrow 307. In response, the lightingsource 316A is adjusted in the direction of arrow 307, but the realworld lighting effect is initially located on the wall located behindthe mannequin 303. The user may continue to drag his finger further inthe direction of arrow 307 and the real world lighting effect willcontinue on the wall behind the mannequin 303 until it is intersected bythe mannequin 303. At that time the lighting representation 341A iscorrectly positioned and its location will be updated in the display 331to reflect that it is atop the mannequin 303. The location and the sizeof the effect may be determined based on the determined distance betweenthe lighting source 316A and the mannequin 303 and the virtual displaycharacteristics (shading, size) of the effect aspect of the lightingrepresentation 341A may be determined based in part on that distance.

In FIGS. 8 and 9, the size of the lighting effect indicated by lightingrepresentation 341C has been adjusted by a user to be smaller (asindicated by the smaller size of outer circle 342C). This may beaccomplished via an input by a user. For example, a user may utilize atwo-finger pinch gesture atop the lighting representation 341C(optionally after selection thereof) to shrink the size of the lightingeffect. Also, for example, the user may double click the lightingrepresentation 341C and be presented with a listing of adjustableparameters for the lighting effect and/or light source. The input by auser may then be communicated to the lighting system to cause thedesired narrowing of the lighting effect in the real environment. Forexample, the positioning of a reflector around the light source 316C maybe adjusted to narrow the light output. The size of the inner circle344C may also be decreased to identify the narrower beam width of thelight source 316C. The intensity of the light source 316C was notadjusted by the user between FIGS. 7 and 8. Consequently, the intensityof the lighting effect is greater in FIG. 8 as indicated by the lightershading of outer circle 342C.

In FIG. 9, the stick 340C is shown adjusted to light source 316E therebychanging to stick 340E. The stick 340C may be moved to light source 316Eby selecting the stick with pointer 308 and moving the stick in thedirection of arrow 309. The stick 340C may also be moved utilizingtouchscreen methods (e.g., selecting and dragging the stick 340C,selecting the stick 340C and tilting the display 331). When the stick340C is moved to light source 316E the lighting effect on the mannequin303 is now generated by the light source 316E and comes from thedirection indicated by the stick 340E. The lighting representation 341Emay be adjusted to correspond with the parameters of the new lightsource 316E if they are indeed different than the light source 316A(e.g., if the light source 316E is farther away or has a higher luminousoutput). In FIG. 9 several dashed lines are indicated. The dashed linesmay indicate discrete light sources to which the stick 340C may beadjusted. In certain lighting fixtures, a stick may be adjusted tomultiple discrete positions asserted with a single light source. Forexample, in the case of a light source whose relative position withinthe real environment moves (e.g., a light source placed on a crane), thestick may be moved in a continuous way. Also, for example, in the caseof a lighting fixture having multiple directional LED sources, a stickmay be adjusted to multiple discrete LEDs within the lighting fixture.

In the illustrated embodiment the effect end of the stick 340C remainsat the same position, while the light source end is moved to a newlocation. If only a few possibilities for moving the light source endare valid (e.g. discrete number of light sources), the stick 340C mayjump to the nearest possible light source while being moved, until it isreleased at the desired light source. In the case of a light on a crane,the stick may move smoothly, while the crane follows the movement of thelight source end of the stick. In some alternative embodiments, whenmoving the stick close to a light source representation on the display331, the light source becomes active (representation changes appearanceand/or real world light source may instantly show a preview of theeffect), and when the user releases the stick 340C it automaticallyconnects to the closest light source. Optionally, areas that arenon-accessible by the stick 340C (e.g., light sources that are too faraway and/or are blocked by obstacles) may be greyed out indicating tothe user an available range and/or areas that are accessible by thestick 340C may be highlighted.

By using known touchscreen, gesture interaction methods, and/or otherinputs (e.g., a keyboard, stylus, and/or a mouse) other properties ofthe light effect may optionally be changed. For example, one or more ofcolor temperature, color, beam shape, and filters or gobos that can beplaced in front of the light source may be altered. For example, thebeam shape may be altered by double clicking on the lightingrepresentation and selecting from a plurality of predefined beam shapeoptions. Optionally, when the beam shape is altered the shape of thelighting representation may be altered to correspond with such beamshape. Also, optionally, when the color or color temperature is altered,the color of the lighting representation may be altered to correspondwith such selected color.

Also, sequences that change the temporal or spatial behaviour of thelight effect can be activated via user input. Light source parametersmay also optionally be locked via user input to prevent changes such as,for example locking the pan, tilt, and/or dimming level of a lightsource. When a parameter is locked, the system may prevent on screeninteractions that are counter to such parameter. For example, whenmoving a stick, the stick may not jump to a light source having a lockedpan parameter that does not correspond with the necessary pan parameterto create a lighting effect at the desired location.

Also, constraints may be placed on certain lighting effects. Forexample, a constraint to “keep intensity to approximately 1000 lux” maybe placed on a lighting effect. When the lighting effect is redirected,the distance to the light source and thus the intensity may change. Thischange may optionally be automatically compensated by adjusting thedimming level of the light source.

When multiple lighting representations are pointed to the same location,the lighting representations (circles in the Figures) may be stacked oneach other in the display. In some embodiments by tapping several timeson the stacked lighting representations, the user can browse through theindividual lighting representations in the stack.

In some embodiments the lighting representations may be fixable on acertain object in the real environment, such that the lightingrepresentations will follow the object when it is moved in the realenvironment. For example, one or more actors may be tracked across astage. Also, for example, a product on a shelf may be illuminated evenwhen it is picked up now and then, and put back at a slightly differentlocation. The interface may offer an interaction mechanism for users toindicate which objects should be illuminated, and with which lightingproperties. Properties such as, for example, the lighting intensity andspot size may be fixed to a certain object.

While several inventive embodiments have been described and illustratedherein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision avariety of other means and/or structures for performing the functionand/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantagesdescribed herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications isdeemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments describedherein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciatethat all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations describedherein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters,dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon thespecific application or applications for which the inventive teachingsis/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able toascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalentsto the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is,therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presentedby way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claimsand equivalents thereto, inventive embodiments may be practicedotherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventiveembodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individualfeature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein.In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems,articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems,articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent,is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure.

All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood tocontrol over dictionary definitions, definitions in documentsincorporated by reference, and/or ordinary meanings of the definedterms.

The indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in thespecification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to thecontrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.”

The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification and in theclaims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements soconjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some casesand disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with“and/or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” ofthe elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be presentother than the elements specifically identified by the “and/or” clause,whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and/or B”, when usedin conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer,in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other thanB); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elementsother than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionallyincluding other elements); etc.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “atleast one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should beunderstood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more ofthe elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including atleast one of each and every element specifically listed within the listof elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the listof elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally bepresent other than the elements specifically identified within the listof elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether relatedor unrelated to those elements specifically identified. It should alsobe understood that, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, in anymethods claimed herein that include more than one step or act, the orderof the steps or acts of the method is not necessarily limited to theorder in which the steps or acts of the method are recited.

Also, reference numerals appearing in the claims between parentheses, ifany, are provided merely for convenience and should not be construed aslimiting the claims in any way.

1. A method of controlling a lighting system for lighting anenvironment, comprising: moving a lighting effect representation to avirtual location on an interactive display, said virtual locationrepresentative of a real location in said lighting environment;directing a light output of a lighting source to said real location;adjusting at least one of a size and a shading of said lightingrepresentation on said interactive display; and adjusting at least oneof a beam width, a color, and an intensity of said light output inresponse to said adjusting of at least one of said size and said shadingof said lighting representation.
 2. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising adjusting a fiducial marking associated with saidrepositionable lighting representation on said virtual screen, whereinadjusting said fiducial marking adjusts directionality of artificiallight incident at said real location.
 3. The method of claim 2, whereinadjusting said fiducial marking adjusts directionality of said lightoutput.
 4. The method of claim 2, wherein adjusting said fiducialmarking directs a second light output of a second light source to saidreal location.
 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising moving adistal end of a fiducial marking extending from adjacent said lightingrepresentation from adjacent a first virtual light source location toadjacent a second virtual light source location, said first virtuallight source location corresponding with said lighting source and saidsecond virtual light source location corresponding with a separatesecond lighting source; and directing a light output of said secondlighting source to said real location.
 6. The method of claim 1, whereinsaid lighting representation includes an outer shape and an inner shapeencapsulated within said outer shape.
 7. The method of claim 1, whereinsaid lighting representation includes a light source representation anda lighting effect representation.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein atleast one of said size and said shading of said light sourcerepresentation is adjusted.
 9. The method of claim 7, wherein at leastone of said size and said shading of said lighting effect representationis adjusted.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein adjusting said shadingof said lighting effect representation automatically adjusts saidshading of said light source representation.
 11. The method of claim 10,wherein said beam width is adjusted in response to adjusting said sizeof said lighting effect representation.
 12. The method of claim 11,wherein said beam width is adjusted in response to adjusting said size.13. The method of claim 12, wherein said intensity is adjusted inresponse to adjusting said shading.